An Post has unveiled two new stamps, both with a striking and “super spooky” design.
The new additions come as part of the postal service’s 2022 Halloween celebrations, with free postcards available to children ahead of the midterm break.
Both the national and international stamps have gotten an eerie revamp just in time for Halloween.
The stamps have been described as having a “striking” appearance and were designed by renowned Irish visual artist Aideen Barry with graphic design by Oonagh Young.
The legend ‘Balor of the Evil Eye’ was the inspiration for the national stamp’s design. It shows the eye weeping tears of toxic, neon-green venom. The story goes that Balor cast his eye across a Donegal.
The world stamp portrays the poisoned glen, which is said to retain the infamous name to this day. The image shows the glen filled with green poison that is oozing and steaming.
Speaking about the commission to create these stamps, Aideen described it as a “dream”.
She said: “An Post has a long track record of commissioning artists for our national stamps and I follow in the footsteps of my heroes like Francis Bacon, Evie Hone, Mainie Jellett and Patrick Scott.”
The theme of this year’s EUROPA European Post Office stamp issue, which sees all European postal companies produce their own interpretation of a common topic, is myths and legends.
“The stamps tell the story of Balor and Cró Nimhe as Contae Dhún na nGall. The supernatural being or Fomorian is supposed to have looked upon this beautiful land and poisoned it with his toxic stare,” Aideen said.
“Though in actuality, it is one of the most gorgeous spots in Europe and I highly recommend you visit it to see it for yourself.”
The stamps are available at selected post office branches, and can also be purchased online. Free postcards for children are also available.
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